Anatomy is widely recognised as one of the most challenging subjects for first-year allied health students. As the subject is essential to future careers in high-demand areas such as occupational therapy and physiotherapy, the University of South Australia has developed a novel teaching method to help students succeed in this challenging, but essential, subject.
The team's approach has three dimensions. Firstly, they have adopted a dynamic, personal and engaging method of delivering classes, where fun and learning happily co-exist.
Secondly, they have gone to great lengths to ensure their learning environment is comfortable and human-focused.
And thirdly, they have created a unique peer tutoring program, in which students who have previously completed the anatomy course support first-year students. Assessment of the program, published in the Journal of Allied Health, found it has delivered outstanding benefits for first-year students, while also providing benefits for peer tutors, including entry into the academic profession for some.
Finalists - Dr Arjun Burlakoti, Dr Nicola Massy-Westropp and Dr Harsha Wechalekar
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/64ed54d6b2904ef9dfbcdd80/655eff885dd3b070b74fb6a1_Shaping-Australia-Awards-Anatomy.jpg)
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/64ed54d6b2904ef9dfbcdd80/655efcc85f87a83e5de7922e_Arjun_Burlakoti_UniSA_2.jpg)
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/64ed54d6b2904ef9dfbcdd80/655efcd093e3ab42cd8bb25f_Nicola%20Massey-Westropp.jpg)
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/64ed54d6b2904ef9dfbcdd80/655efcda0ca0432ba707cdc4_Anatomy_Back-7%20copy.jpg)
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/64ed54d6b2904ef9dfbcdd80/655efce4a91fb6e058cc8784_Anatomy_Back-11%20copy.jpg)
Stay informed
Receive the latest updates about the Shaping Australia Awards program.